Lanxess has announced its intention to take over the microbial control business of the US group International Flavours & Fragrances (IFF). IFF Microbial Control is one of the suppliers of antimicrobial active ingredients and formulations for material protection, preservatives and disinfectants. The products are used in a wide range of applications, particularly in personal care and household products, industrial water treatment as well as paints and coatings.
Matthias Zachert, chairman of the board of management of Lanxess, commented: “In 2021, all signs are pointing to growth. The acquisition of IFF Microbial Control is already the fourth this year and Lanxess’ second largest ever. The business fits ideally into our strategic direction – specialty chemicals with attractive margins, applications in a wide range of industries and with a global positioning. It will make Lanxess one of the world’s largest suppliers of microbial control products.
“At the same time, we are enhancing Consumer Protection to become the strongest segment in the group, and are once again taking Lanxess a decisive step forward in terms of profitability and stability.”
IFF Microbial Control offers a portfolio of innovative and sustainable solutions. The products extend the lift and ensure the functionality of end products, for example in paints and coatings, personal care products, detergents and household cleaners. They also preserve water in industrial applications. Hygiene solutions from IFF Microbial Control are also used in functional textiles. They ensure that these remain germ-free for a longer period of time.
IFF Microbial Control operates two production facilities at its US sites in St. Charles, Louisiana, and Institute, West Virginia. The business also maintains a large partner network with active ingredient manufacturers and formulators. Following the completion of the acquisition, the business is to be integrated into Lanxess’ Material Protection Products business unit.
Michael Schäfer, head of the Material Protection Products business unit, added: “With IFF’s microbial control business, we can now expand our portfolio of active ingredients, enabling us to offer our customers additional application-oriented solutions. In addition, we are strengthening our value chain. The business also gives us access to new technologies and enhances our regulatory position through additional registrations.”
The transaction is expected to complete in Q2 2022.
